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Everyone has an opinion. The key to being persuasive, though, is learning how to present your opinion effectively in an argument essay. Though essays are not considered an artistic form of writing, using creativity makes your writing more interesting and, therefore, more memorable. Start with a solid thesis statement and use rhetoric to argue your personal opinion in an essay.

Thesis Statement

Though this essay is based on an opinion, you will still want to investigate your topic and consider your findings. The thesis statement serves as the center of an argument essay; as such, make sure your thesis statement is debatable and narrow enough to prove within the constraints of the essay. For this type of essay, you may make a comparison, challenge a definition, analyze cause and effect or even propose a solution to a problem. Consider your opinion and the reasons behind it to craft a strong thesis statement.

Logical Support

The assignment will dictate whether you conduct research. Regardless, use logic to prove your opinion. Facts and statistics work if you are citing research. Otherwise, use a logical sequence to prove your point. As a simple example consider the following syllogism: Socrates is mortal. All men are mortal. Socrates is a man. Therefore Socrates is mortal. This format, called syllogism, works by testing the two premises, men are mortal and Socrates is a man; because both are true, you reach the logical conclusion that Socrates is mortal.

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Emotional Appeal

Aristotle defined rhetoric as being able to see the effective means of persuasion and using it. Logic is one of those means, but a truly effective argument uses emotional appeal. To use this form of persuasion effectively, you must engage your reader’s emotions. Advertisers use this appeal well; copy some of their techniques to engender the emotions you want your readers to feel. For example, you can tell a sad story to induce pity or use witty phrasing to engender goodwill. Remember, your goal is to make your readers receptive to agreeing with you.

Credibility

Readers will not agree with an argument if they do not trust the source. You must establish your credibility. For one, make sure to acknowledge opposing viewpoints; this shows that you are fair. If appropriate, cite many sources, showing that you are willing to work to prove your point and have the background to be knowledgeable on the topic. If referencing yourself, identify the reason for your expertise: “As a teacher, I advise … .” Include your reader in a group in which you are also a member. Before turning in the essay, revise your work for spelling and grammar errors; error-free writing shows you are a knowledgeable person worth believing.